Chapter 38: A Seat at the Table

"I am so sorry," Solomon said once they were out of ear range. "I don't understand why it is so difficult for her to accept this. I feel like your father and my father are on board but she is so stubborn. What she said was uncalled for and unacceptable. Please know that I do not share any of her opinions."

Layla smiled but it did not hide her pain. She tried to put on a brave face for Solomon. She knew that it must be harder for him to listen to all of this than her. She knew how Saraiah felt, it was no secret. They had been naive to think that she would change her mind and support them. But they desperately wanted to believe, all children do regardless of age, that their parents love them and support them unconditionally.

"It's okay," she said softly.

"I love you," he said as he took both of her hands in his. Layla stood on her tip-toes to gently give Solomon a quick reassuring kiss. "We should check on Cassias. I want to make sure he's okay. My mom can be," he paused, "a lot, es